Dental Hygiene - Associate of Applied Science
The Associate of Applied Science in Dental Hygiene is a two-year program that educates students in the practice of comprehensive dental hygiene patient care. These practices include the administration of local anesthesia and nitrous oxide. The program’s goal is to empower students with the knowledge needed to gain employment and provide outstanding care. Dental hygienists are in high demand, and graduates find jobs in private dental practices and public healthcare clinics. Alternative career paths include sales, research and education. Following the completion of their coursework, students are required to take national, regional and state licensure examinations. This is a selective admission program and a separate application process is required. Upon acceptance, a student may enroll in the program-specific courses. To view the application process, visit otc.edu/alliedhealth.
The Dental Hygiene Program is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) of the American Dental Association.
Program At a Glance
For those who want to:
Prevent oral disease
Provide health education and patient services
Engage in community dental activities
Attain a job in a high-demand field
Program Snapshot
In-district Tuition: Click Here
Out-of-district Tuition: Click Here
Credits: 92*
Average Salary: $76,540*
Graduation Retention Rate: 95%*
Possible Careers
Dental hygienist
Clinician
Sales representative
Administrator
Educator
*Costs are estimates and are subject to change. Please visit the tuition and fees details page for precise details or call 417-447-7500. Degree time/credits vary with students' enrollment and course completion. Graduation retention varies by case. For program enrollment, retention, exam/certification, and employment rates visit Student Outcomes/Student Right-to-Know. Salary information is provided by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Some careers on this list may require additional education and training. For program-specific accreditation visit OTC Accreditation.
Degree Requirements
For the full program requirements, see curriculum. For the full list of courses, see the catalog.
Admissions
General Admissions to Ozarks Tech
Admission to Ozarks Technical Community College is open to all individuals who can benefit from its educational programs. A focus of the college mission is on the academic, career and personal goals of the student. OTC may admit you as a First-Time student just completing their high school, GED or HiSET requirements or as a Transfer student coming from another institution finishing up a certificate or degree. For more information, visit OTC Admissions.
Wondering how you’re going to pay for college? At OTC, we believe that cost shouldn’t be a barrier to earning a degree. Our staff will work with you to make a financial plan. To browse the resources available to you, see paying for college.